Through Ohio And Kentucky

From October 18 to November 3, the traveler and a companion journeyed through Ohio and Kentucky, encountering muddy roads, hilly terrain, and varying degrees of settlement. They observed a decline in land quality and hospitality as they moved westward, noting indifferent buildings and unwelcoming locals. Key stops included Siers, Freeport, Zanesville, Chillicothe, and Louisville, where they experienced both hospitality and disappointment. The journey concluded with reflections on the changing landscapes and the people met along the way, contrasting Ohio’s and Kentucky’s societal characteristics.

Biography of Frank Ewing

Frank Ewing began studying law in 1856 and was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1859. He was a successful farmer and justice of the peace in Ohio before moving to Daviess County, Missouri, in 1867. There, he engaged in mercantile activities and was elected justice of the peace, a position he held, with few interruptions, for many years. A staunch Democrat, Ewing actively supported his party and was well-regarded for his judgment and intellect. He also contributed to Gallatin’s public improvements as a supervisor.

Slave Narrative of Ben Brown

Ben Brown, interviewed at age 100 in Zanesville, Ohio, recounts his life as a slave in Virginia and Alabama. He describes the harsh conditions of plantation life, including hard labor, meager meals, and frequent punishment. Brown reflects on the separation from his sister, attempts to escape, and eventual freedom during the Civil War. Afterward, he worked various jobs, including on the railroad, married, and faced injuries. Despite a difficult past, he finds comfort in his current life and cherishes music and memories of resilience.

Biographical Sketch of Robert Newell

Robert Newell, known as Doc Newell, was a prominent pioneer born on March 30, 1807, near Zanesville, Ohio. He was a companion of Joe Meek in trapping ventures and later migrated to Oregon in 1840, where he contributed to the state’s development. Despite limited formal education, Newell’s intelligence and character earned him respect among early settlers. He married Rebecca Newman in 1846 and relocated to Lewiston, Idaho, where he passed away in November 1869.

Biography of John M. Silcott

John M. Silcott, born January 14, 1824, in Virginia, became a prominent Idaho pioneer after moving there in 1860 to establish the Indian agency at Lapwai. With a background in carpentry and significant experiences during gold rushes in California and Oregon, he later built and operated ferries across the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, significantly contributing to local transportation and commerce. Silcott was notably married to Jane, a Nez Percé chief’s daughter. His dedication to the community and political engagement further solidified his legacy in Idaho’s history.

Biography of Thomas J. Reynolds

Thomas J. Reynolds, known as “The Poot of the Wakarusa,” was a pioneer who settled in Kansas in 1854. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1812, he was well-educated and skilled in various trades, including glass-blowing. His journey west to seek gold in California ended in disappointment, leading him back to Ohio, where he married Ann Maria McCall. Seeking a healthier environment for his wife, he moved to Kansas, where he faced numerous challenges as a pioneer. A dedicated community member, he helped establish the Union Sunday School and continued farming until his death in 1876.

Biography of Milton F. Ward

Milton F. Ward, born in Ohio in 1832, became a prominent farmer and businessman in Shawnee County, Kansas. He served in the Civil War, achieving the rank of captain, while his wife, Sarah, managed their farm and family amidst hardships. After the war, they relocated to Kansas, where Ward’s diligent farming led to substantial success. A community leader, he contributed to local education and churches and was well-respected. Ward passed away in 1892, leaving a legacy of hard work and civic involvement.

Biographical Sketch of Paul J. Brown

Paul J. Brown, born on November 10, 1864, in Zanesville, Ohio, began his career in the automobile industry after receiving a public school education. He worked initially at The Jacob Smith Carriage & Wagon Co. and held various roles in carriage shops in Pittsburgh. Moving to Cleveland in 1890, he became foreman at The Jacob Hoffman Wagon Co. and later partnered with Broc Carriage & Wagon Co. After retiring in 1908, he founded the Brown Auto Carriage Co. and served as its president until his retirement.

Biographical Sketch of Samuel Walter Kelley

Samuel Walter Kelley, born in Adamsville, Ohio, in 1855, was a prominent physician and surgeon specializing in pediatric medicine. He earned his M.D. from Western Reserve University in 1884 and furthered his training in London. Kelley’s career included significant roles at various hospitals and universities, including chief of the department of diseases of children and editor of the Cleveland Medical Gazette. He served as a civilian surgeon during the Spanish-American War and was active in numerous medical organizations, authoring several publications on children’s health.

Biographical Sketch of Emmet J. Strong

Emmet J. Strong was born on January 31, 1862, in Huntsburg, Ohio. He was educated in local public schools and married Lenora Goodwin in 1893, with whom he had two sons. Strong founded The Curtiss Steel Roofing Co. in 1893, later moving and expanding it into The Muskingum Valley Steel Co. in Zanesville. In 1902, he sold his interests and became vice president and director of the J. M. and L. A. Osborn Co. He was active in his community, participating in the Chamber of Commerce and local organizations.

Biography of Robert L. Queisser

Robert L. Queisser, born on August 9, 1866, in Indianapolis, Indiana, was a prominent businessman and community leader. After working in railroad management, he co-founded The Hunt-Queisser-Bliss Co. in Cleveland, later renamed The Queisser-Bliss Co., specializing in brick and builders supplies. Queisser held various military and civic roles, including regimental adjutant and past president of the Chamber of Commerce in Zanesville. He was also actively involved in numerous associations and clubs, contributing significantly to his community until his passing.

Biography of Lewis C. Nelson .

Lewis C. Nelson, born on July 15, 1871, in Glasgow, Scotland, became a prominent figure in Coffeyville as the superintendent of the Ludowici-Celadon Company. Orphaned early, he emigrated to the U.S. at twelve and honed his skills in wood carving and pottery before transitioning to roofing tile production. After various roles across the Midwest, he settled in Coffeyville in 1911. A respected community member, he is active in local organizations and has four children with his wife, Lillian Stanton.

King, John – Obituary

John King, aged 84, passed away on December 12, 1904, at his daughter’s home in Elgin, Oregon. A respected pioneer of Eastern Oregon, he traced his lineage to the Pilgrim Fathers. Born in Ohio, he moved westward in 1882 after living in Vandalia, Illinois. King was married to Maria A. Dawson, with whom he had eight children, four of whom survived him. He enjoyed good health well into old age and was remembered for his connections with notable historical figures. His funeral was held at the Presbyterian church.

Biographical Sketch of Col. Robert H. McFadden

Colonel Robert H. McFadden, born in 1833 in Zanesville, Ohio, began his career as a cabinet-maker before relocating to Illinois. He settled in Mattoon in 1855, where he constructed its first dwelling and was part of the community’s early governance, becoming the first Justice of the Peace. During the Civil War, he rose through the ranks to Colonel. Post-war, he returned to carpentry before entering public service as Mayor and later as Police Magistrate, a position he has maintained since 1873. He had four children with his wife, Sarah A. Norvell.

Biographical Sketch of John Winkelblack

John Winkelblack, born March 4, 1805, in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, spent his early years in the tanning trade before moving to Ohio in 1829. He later settled in Morgan Township, Illinois, where he amassed nearly 1,100 acres. Despite facing challenges, such as a remote mill requiring long trips, Winkelblack thrived as a farmer and stock-raiser. He married Catharine Weaver in 1841, with whom he had twelve children. A dedicated community member, he served as a school trustee and director, emphasizing education throughout his life.

Biography of Isaac W. Hazelett, M. D.

Isaac W. Hazelett, M.D., born in Cincinnati in 1855, is a prominent figure in San Bernardino’s medical community. After graduating from Jefferson Medical College in 1879, he practiced in Delaware before health issues led him to California. He settled in San Bernardino in 1883, where he prospered with partner Dr. J. N. Bayliss, contributing significantly to local healthcare. A member of various medical societies, Hazelett overcame his lung troubles and enjoys good health. He and his wife, Miss Irwin, have three children, with one daughter surviving.